The island's historical residents have included South Americans, the Spanish, and the English, but despite Jamaica's geographic location, its roots point more towards Africa than the Caribbean. As a central point for trade from Africa to America, Jamaica has retained many of its links to Africa, as well as its more recent traditions associated with Rastafarianism and reggae music.

But this island is about more than just the music and ganja. Jamaica is a paradise where you can swim with the dolphins, ride horses on the beach, and try your hand at rafting, windsurfing, or fishing. Runaway Bay and Treasure Beach also offer excellent diving and snorkelling facilities. Away from the coastline, Jamaica's picturesque Blue Mountains are filled with hidden waterfalls and vast plantations, where you can sample some of the country's famous coffee or kick back with a large measure of Appleton Rum. In the cities, there are plenty of great bars, clubs, and restaurants where you can try the national dish made of Ackee fruit or bammy, a cassava pancake. Local Jamaicans are quite sociable, and there's every chance you could walk away from here with a few braids and some new friends.

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